Chitty Chitty Bang Bang loop - Bracknell to Turville Windmill & Marlow Bridge

The estimated cycling time for this 71.5 km (44.4 miles) loop is approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. However, this can vary based on your fitness level, speed, and how often you stop to enjoy the scenery or visit points of interest.

This route is considered a moderate road ride and requires good fitness due to its length and around 530 meters (1,740 feet) of elevation gain. While mostly paved, some segments may be unpaved and difficult to ride, making it less ideal for absolute beginners on a racebike.

The route starts in Bracknell. While specific parking details for the starting point aren't provided, Bracknell offers various public parking facilities. For public transport, Bracknell is well-connected by train, making it accessible for cyclists without a car.

The route largely consists of well-paved surfaces, with approximately 58.5 km of asphalt and 13.0 km of paved roads. However, be aware that some segments may be unpaved and could be challenging for a racebike.

You'll cycle through the picturesque Chiltern Hills, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty. Highlights include the iconic Cobstone Windmill (famously featured in 'Chitty Chitty Bang Bang'), the historic Marlow Suspension Bridge, and the charming Henley-on-Thames town centre and riverside. You'll also pass through peaceful woodlands like Marlow Common and scenic villages like Turville.

The Chilterns are beautiful year-round, but spring and summer offer the most pleasant cycling conditions with warmer weather and longer daylight hours. Autumn provides stunning foliage. Always check the weather forecast before you go, as some unpaved sections could become muddy after rain.

Yes, the route passes through several charming villages and towns, including Henley-on-Thames and Marlow, which offer numerous cafes, pubs, and restaurants. Turville village, near Cobstone Windmill, also has options for refreshments.

The Chilterns National Landscape is generally open to the public for recreational activities like cycling, and there are no specific entrance fees or permits required to cycle this route. However, always respect private land, follow local signage, and adhere to the Countryside Code.

This route is primarily designed for racebiking on roads and paved surfaces. While dogs are generally welcome in the Chilterns National Landscape, cycling with a dog on this specific route might be challenging due to traffic and the nature of road cycling. If you bring a dog, ensure it is well-behaved and kept on a leash, especially in populated areas or near livestock.

Yes, the route intersects with several other paths. Notably, it includes sections of the Chilterns Cycleway, the Round Berkshire Cycle Route, and the Thames Path. You'll also encounter parts of The Chiltern Way and the European walking route E2 west, UK, South East England.